Effects of electroless composite plating Ni-Cu-P on the electrochemical properties of La-Mg-Ni-based hydrogen storage alloy

► Electroless composite plating Ni-Cu-P treatment was applied to La-Mg-Ni-based alloys. ► Ni-Cu-P particles deposited on the alloy surface uniformly and compactly. ► Ni-Cu-P coatings enhanced the catalytic activity of the alloy and acted as a protective layer. ► Electrochemical characteristics have been improved effectively by the Ni-Cu-P metallic layers.